France: Bourges
Loire Valley has one city with mind blowing cathedral after another – move away Chartres and Orleans (see previous posts), here come UNESCO-listed Bourges with its cathedral. Cathedrale Saint-Etienne dates back to 12-13th century and simply magnificent with two massive frontal towers and five doorways richly adorned with exquisite sculptures. The interior is equally stunning my with massive columns soaring high to the ceiling and dark and solemn atmosphere illuminated with absolutely surreal 13th century stained-glass windows. The cathedral is rightfully considered one of the most spectacular in France. But there’s more to Bourses besides the cathedral – there’s the 1453 palace of Palais Jacques Côur, dozens of beautiful half-timbered houses lining cobblestone streets, several museums and ruins of Gallo-Roman city walls.
